[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E148]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF COLONEL GIL CORONADO

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOAQUIN CASTRO

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 20, 2026

  Mr. CASTRO of Texas. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life and 
legacy of Retired U.S. Air Force Colonel Gil Coronado, who passed away 
on Saturday, February 7, 2026. Known as the ``Padrino'' of Hispanic 
Heritage Month, Colonel Coronado was a champion for our Nation's 
Hispanic communities. He is survived by his wife, Mary Helen, his four 
children Elaine, Todd, Troy and Troup, three granddaughters and three 
great-grandchildren.
  Born in Corpus Christi, Texas and raised in the Westside barrios of 
San Antonio, Colonel Coronado's early life was marked by adversity. 
However, Colonel Coronado was determined to overcome every obstacle he 
encountered. After dropping out of Lanier High School, Colonel Coronado 
decided to enlist in the United States Air Force at the age of 16. 
Colonel Coronado served our Nation with immeasurable bravery and honor 
as he rose through the ranks. He served in Southeast Asia during the 
Vietnam War and completed tours of duty in Germany, Spain and Panama. 
For his service, he was awarded a Bronze Star, the Legion of Merit and 
many other commendations.
  In 1958, Colonel Coronado married his wife Mary Helen at Sacred Heart 
Church in San Antonio. Colonel Coronado and Mrs. Coronado shared a 
remarkable 67 years of marriage together.
  In 1985, Colonel Coronado was assigned to the Inter-American Defense 
Board. It was here that he began to work closely with Members of 
Congress to advocate for the expansion of efforts to honor and 
celebrate the Hispanic contributions to American history. In 1988, his 
efforts proved successful, when Congress passed legislation that turned 
National Hispanic Week into Hispanic Heritage Month. Now, every year, 
because of his tireless advocacy, the United States recognizes and 
dedicates an entire month to celebrate the rich culture and incredible 
contributions of the Hispanic community.
  In 1994, he was appointed by President Bill Clinton as the first 
Hispanic Director of the Selective Service System. He retired from the 
position in 2001 and returned to San Antonio where he continued to 
serve and lead the community.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing the incredible life and 
legacy of Colonel Gil Coronado. He served our Nation with the utmost 
dignity and respect and was a champion for our Hispanic Heritage. He 
will be greatly missed.

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